Month: April 2019

eil.The Burnley Express says McNeil's breakout campaign, in which he scored three goals and made five assists from 21 Premier League appearances, has attracted interest from several clubs including Everton, Newcastle and Pep Guardiola's Watford have snapped up Reading goalkeeper Myles Roberts.The Hornets have strengthened their development squad ranks with the signing of goalkeeper Roberts from Reading.The 18-year-old has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at the club and will join the Under-18 squad.Roberts had been at Reading since 2017, and played alongside Watford Under-23 captain Jamal Balogun while with the Royals.Manchester Ci

Arsenal have been left fuming by ’s attempt to lure Hector Bellerin to the Etihad. claim City have unsettled Bellerin because of their interest in the highly-rated Spanish defender. It is understood the Gunners were so annoyed they contacted City’s chief negotiator Txiki Begiristain to issue an angry hands-off warning to the Blues and their director of football. Arsenal feel City’s pursuit of Bellerin has thrown a spanner into their negotiations with the right-back over a new long-term deal. Arsenal promised the Spaniard improved terms in April as a reward for his outstanding campaign last season. However the contract talks over the terms of a five-year deal have failed to make much progress and Arsenal feel City’s interest has complicated the negotiations. City boss Pep Guardiola is a big admirer of Bellerin and his fellow Catalan was at ’s famed academy when he was in charge at the Nou Camp before he left to join Arsenal in 2011. Guardiola is keen to strengthen his options at right-back because Bacary Sagna and Pablo Zabaleta are both over 30. Arsenal continue their pre-season training at London Colney Zabaleta’s future is also uncertain because he lost his starting position last season and the popular Argentinian is wanted by Inter Milan and Roma. Bellerin, 21, would be a perfect fit for Guardiola and Begiristain knows his agent Albert Botines because two of his clients are City youngsters Erik Sarmiento and Paolo Fernandes. Arsenal are determined to tie Bellerin down to the Emirates to ward off any more advances for him and they have already rebuffed a bid from Barcelona. Barca enquired about taking Bellerin back to the Nou Camp at the end of last season and their interest was flatly rejected by the Gunners. Bellerin signed a long-term deal 12 months ago and Arsenal want to recognise the strides he made last rs that Newcastle United midfielder Mo Diame has found his next club.The 31-year-old is set to join Qatari side Al-Gharafa.The Senegalese midfielder will be participating in the Qatari Stars League from next season if the move goes ahead.Diame has leseason when he emerged rsenal youngster Tyreece John-Jules is growing in confidence from his performances with the club's U23 side.The exciting forward scored twice in a 2-1 win over Leicester City on Saturday.He told the club's website: "It boosts my confidence and I haveas one of the best young full-backs in Europe. This latest fall-out between City and Arsenal has added to the bad blood between the Premier League rivals. Arsenal were unhappy with City’s signing of Samir Nasri in 2011, which turned into a transfer saga that summer. They were also annoyed when then City boss Roberto Mancini openly talked about his desire to sign Robin van Persie before he quit the Emirates in 2012 to join . Arsenal Would Hector Bellerin be a good signing for Manchester City?0+ VOTES SO FAR

When the number 19 flashed up Jose Mourinho turned to the south stand, raised his arms aloft, nodded his head emphatically and put his hands together as strolled towards him. Mourinho grabbed Rashford fervently as he congratulated the striker on what was his most complete performance yet in a shirt, An unknown quantity versus the fodder of Midtjylland and a fragile Arsenal, against the champions-elect Rashford had Chelsea’s defenders on toast and Jesse Lingard's substitution did not diminish his contribution as the lone striker. Rashford epitomised the underdog status United were tagged with an hour before kick-off. Six of the starters could claim to be undisputed first-teamers and the jumbled line-up caught Chelsea, unsettled by Marcos Alonso's late withdrawal, unawares. This still might not be a defining moment in United's season but it could be in the Mourinho era. Nothing represelder Paul Pogba.AS says Real have put pressure on United to sell their star midfielder.But the Old Trafford club's response has been to slap a huge £180million price tag on the French World Cup winner.Real were initially thought to be desperate to cnts a Mourinho siege mentality more than the Portuguese clad tracksuit and a gilet and it was not the only tactic which utterly unsettled Chelsea. A peculiar formation, questionable selections and a pessimistic mentality among some supporters crystallised. There was not a single bad performance from the starting XI as Matteo Darmian enjoyed his best display of the campaign, Marouane Fellaini was serenaded by the Stretford End and Lingard's stint up front could cause Anthony Martial's fanboys to change their avatars. There was something retro about United's performance. It was reminiscent of the unlikely victory over Arsenal in December 2002, a match mainly memorable for Phil Neville’s unusual positioning in central midfield against a team who had scored in every league match that calendar year. United shut out Arsenal amid a raucous and defiant atmosphere. Mourinho has invited the natives to 'play' in his programme notes on countless occasions and they played extremely well on Sunday against the monotony of Chelsea’s followers. Cesc Fabregas was heckled as the Anderson chant was aired and I'm Into Something Good has seldom sounded so buoyant. Maybe Antonio Conte removed his cap to scratch his head. He was stumped by Mourinho's innovative tactics as United disturbed the ludicrously lauded N'Golo Kante 10 days after David Silva schooled him. The hype which surrounded the Frenchman galvanised the piqued Paul Pogba, indomitable in midfield, and United's unpredictable attack dragged Kante outside of his comfort zone. Ander Herrera, Mourinho's de facto leader, was hollering at Fellaini to push higher up inside the first few moments and then did it for him, intercepting Nemanja Matic's dink - albeit with his hand - and incisively assisting Rashford's opener. The Basque pumped both fists as he hurried over to his teammate and the energy was infectious. Herrera followed up a second-half clearance with a run to rival the Battery Bunny before shrieking at Fellaini to press again. The Belgian was not the only player whose case Herrera was on to. Chelsea, already destabilised by Thibaut Courtois' freak injury during an NBA event, were not allowed to settle by Lingard's intuitive movement - the ideal foil for Rashford - and Pogba was let off the leash. The Youth Cup winners played with Rashford when he was only 12 and their understanding was telepathic as they stunned a Chelsea defence which expected the muscularity of Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Ibrahimovic replaced Rashford late on and might now decide to commit to a second season with United. His ego, massaged throughout the season by Mourinho, could be sore from the criticism he received in Brussels and the performance United produced in his absence. His goalscoring has won countless points, a major trophy and Ibrahimovic should place the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year trophy on his packed mantlepiece. When Ibrahimovic isn’t scoring, though, he isn't really doing anything and United are effectiled out a title challenge this new season.Emery says the gap to champions Manchester City and runners-up Liverpool is too big to close.He warned: "We need to be realistic because the distance between City and Liverpool to us is a lot of points."We nevely reduced to 10 men. He refuses to expend his energy unless it is absolutely necessary and compromises the team's intensity, which rocketed with the willing Rashford at the tip of the arrow. Ibrahimovic is a help and a hindrance. It also evoked memories of the 2006 run-in, when the team was enhanced by the demotion of a selfish figurehead in Ruud van Nistelrooy. Louis Saha replaced him and United's interruption of Chelsea’s Premier League monopoly can be traced back to that decision. Rashford, scolded for his 'inconsistent' performance against West Brom a fortnight earlier, has responded magnificently and mimicked Saha superbly. The applause was merited. Who should start up front for Man United?0+ VOTES SO FAR

received a raucous reception when they landed in Hong Kong ahead of the The Reds are competing in the tournament as part of their pre-season preparations and will spent six days in the city. Liverpool will take on Crystal Palace on Wednesday, before facing off against either West Brom or Leicester City in either the final or the third place play-off. has taken a strong team to Asia for the competition. Sadio Mane, however, has not travelled with the team for the tour as he continues his recovery from injury. Mane picked up the knee problem at the end of last season and is in a race against time to be fit for the start of this campaign. New signing Mo Salah is almost a straight replacement for Mane and he has been included in the squad following his £39million move from Roma. Salah scored on his Reds debut on Friday night as he tapped home in the 1-1 draw with Wigan Athletic. Liverpool's only other summer signing so far, Dominic Solanke, will also feature in the Premier League Asia Trophy. Defender Mamadou Sakho is missing as he remains on the lookout for a new club following a loan spell at Crystal Palace last season. And Lucas Leiva has also been left behind to complete his move to Lazio. Emre Can has not travelled as he has not yet returned following his time off after Germany's successful Confederations Cup Dusseldorf.The American moved to the Bundesliga side on a season-long loan during the summer transfer window and revealed he has already adjusted to life with his new employers.He told Bundesliga.com: “It's been a great start for myself in Düsselcampaign. Liverpool pre-season tour squad : Loris Karius, Simon Mignolet, Danny Ward : Nathaniel Clyne, Dejan Lovren, Joe Gomez Ragnar Klavan, Alberto Moreno,l focus from his players for Saturday's clash with Liverpool.The Blades have made an impressive start to their first Premier League campaign since 2006-07 to sit 10th after six games, but face their stiffest challenge yet when they host the European Joel Matip, Jon Flanagan, Trent Alexander-Arnold : Georginio Wijnaldum, James Milner, Philippe Coutinho, Jordan Henderson, , Adam Lallana, Kevin Stewart, Ryan Kent : Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah, Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi, Dominic Solanke, Ben Woodburn Can Liverpool win the title this season?36000+ VOTES SO FAR

David Moyes has insisted he was unfairly treated by Manchester United. The new boss says his ten month spell at Old Trafford proved to himself he should be working at the top level of the game. is determined to rebuild Sunderland and show United and Real Sociedad that he should have been kept on for the long haul. The Scot hinted that the timing of his United spell, when he succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson’s dynasty, was wrong. And he reckons subsequent struggles under Louis Van Gaal have proved to be mitigating circumstances. Moyes has been handed a four year term at Sunderland, choosing a return to the Premier League to butt heads with the “exciting” mix of newly appointed bosses. Asked if he felt unfairly treated by United, he said: “I’ve said all along that I was. When you sign a six-year contract anter Milan's squad.Icardi has left Inter's training camp by mutual consent and will continue fitness work by himself in Milan.“Mauro Icardi will today return to Milan from our training camp in Lugano," read a statement.“The club and the striker had you end up there ten months, yeah, I believe I was. “But that is life in football. Ultimately the key is to win football matches. I didn’t win enough football matches. “You must say there were mitigating circumstances. And I think you could say there are maybe things that have gone on since then, that would actually justify that even more so.” Moyes says he is now a better boss from the experience and added: “It gave me an unbelievable idea of what it is at the top. “I believe that’s where I can work and that’s where I should be working, and my level is that, because that is what I saw in the time I was there. “You don’t get offered those jobs, you don’t get offered big jobs, if you’ve not done something. You don’t get offered the Real Madrid job, the Barcelona job, the Manchester United job, if you’ve not had something to suggest that there’s a reason for that job.” “Yeah I am better (as a manager). I have had several opportunities, big ones, but timing is so positive. The timingoussa Dembele.Foot Mercato says United are lining up a £43m bid for Dembele following the news that top scorer Marcus Rashford could be missing for up to three months.They claim that United scouts have been watching the player in action in recent we for this job at Sunderland was right. It feels good to me.” Will David Moyes guide Sunderland to Premier League safety this season?3000+ VOTES SO FAR

Theo Walcott admits it is down to the players to take the heat off boss Arsene Wenger. The Gunners boss finds himself under increased pressure after successive 5-1 It ensured another last-16 exit for Arsenal but the manner of the 10-2 aggregate defeat has led to more calls for to depart. Fans staged a protest before the second leg at the Emirates, with the Frenchman yet to sign a contract extension. But Walcott has called on Arsenal's players to take more responsibility to relieve the preted with his current form at AC Milan.On-loan from Eintracht Frankfurt, the attacker has scored five times in six Seri van der Vaart has won a first tie in his pro darts debut.He began a new sporting career with a 4-2 victory over Dane Thomas Anderson in the first round at the BDO Denmark Open at the Granly Hockey Arena in Esbjerg.The 36-year-old, watched by his wife A games since the winter break.“I finally have the opportunity to play regularly and show off my skills," he told Dalmatinski Possure on Wenger. “He will take this on himself but us players need to look at ourselves," "The manager has been taking a lot of flak in recent weeks and us players have been accepting it, but we can’t. “We need to take the pressure off the manager and that will happen by performances. Players just want to play football for this club and do well for the manager.” Arsenal are next in action against Lincoln in the FA Cup this weekend, with the competition resembling their only chance of silverware. The Gunners are currently fifth in the Premier League, 16 points adrift of leaders Chelsea. What should Arsene Wenger do at the end of the season?11000+ VOTES SO FAR

are monitoring defender Joa great Rivaldo says River Plate coach Marcelo Gallardo is capable of succeeding at the Nou Camp.Gallardo has been linked with Ernesto Valverde's job.And Rivaldo told Betfair: "Of course I believe he could coach Barcelona. He's preparing for that. Hise Gimenez with a view to making a bid for the star. The young Uruguay international was the focus of attention during the Champions League fixture against PSV Eindhoven in midweek. One of the chief talent-spotters from Old Trafford was among those casting a keen eye over the 21-year-old centre-back. Gimenez was plucked from the Uruguayan First Division and thrown in at the deep end at the Vicente Calderon last term. He excelled, playing all season under Diego Simeone, and finished the campaign playing in World Cup qualifiers for his country. United boss Jose Mourinho would know all about Gimenez as the club is one of those where his agent, Jorge Mendes, has a strong influence at boardroom level. Mourinho has already dipped into the Spanish market, splashing out £30million on defender Eric Bailly from Villareal. United have been using Daley Blind at centre-back but he was at fault in the derby defeat to Manchester City. The versatile Dutchman does not match the profile of central defenders that Mourinho likes. Gimenez is a much more comfortable fit than Blind or England man Chris Smalling. Will Manchester United win two or more trophies this sque continues to be linked with Manchester United.It's been claimed in England that Henrique is in talks about taking a technical director's position at United.And France's Soccer Link reports the Portuguese has already instructed his scouting networeason?5000+ VOTES SO FAR

attempted to take the moral high ground after won for the 33rd time on Sunday. Los Blancos hadn't won the league in five years before the weekend, where they recorded a 2-0 win over Malaga to take the title. Barcelona had been hot on their heels throughout the campaign but were seen off on the final day of the season, despite battling back to beae done better in victory over Brescia.Mario Pasalic bagged a brace with Josip Ilicic also scoring from a stoppage-time counter-attack.Gasperini said, “We did very well in the first half and dominated, but there was some fatigue and we wasted a lot t Eibar 4-2. Following Real's win the players celebrated in front of t stadium development plans.The Sun says his personal fortune grew by a staggering £2BILLION last year.Abramovich, 52, has effectively stopped funding the club after he shelved Chelsea's plans for a £1bn new stadium at Stamford Bridge last year.But he travelling supporters at La Rosaleda Stadium, where they also paraded boss Zinedine Zidane. Barcelona, who have won the title in six of their last eight campaigns, were no doubt disappointed to miss out on the domestic prize. But instead of feeling bitter about Real Madrid's success, took to Twitter to congratulate their rivals on their title win. The message was short and sweet, reading: "Congratulations to Real Madrid on winning the 2016-17 La Liga." However, shortly after the message appeared online Los Blancos supporters - feeling slightly mischievous - responded in their droves. And well, we're guessing Barcelona wished they hadn't bothered saying anything...

One user came in for a surprise when she was bombarded with questions from football fans on . Hannah Kate tweeted a seemingly innocent tweet saying: "Girls literally find out everything.Leicester City winger Rachid Ghezzal is in talks to sign with Olympiacos.The Foxes paid £12.5m for the Algeria international last year.Ghezzal scored three goals in 23 appearances in all competitions during the 2018/19 campaign.However, Brendan Rodgers has not used the 27-year-old once this season.Olympiacos are hoping to complete a deal before the Greek transfer window shuts on August 31. It doesn't matter if their friends or not". What she went on to receive were dozens of questions about the futures of a number of high profile transfer targets. "Will Arsenal ever sign Benzema or Cavani?", wrote one fan, with another posting: "Will we get Berahino or will he stay?" Another asked: "Is De Gea going to Madrid?" trophy this season.The Italian has lead the Blues to a top-four finish and Europa League semi-final. The second leg of the tie will be played against Eintracht Frankfurt at Stamford Bridge on Thursday night with the scores level at 1-1."We want to re A confused Kate went on to write: "All these people keep tweeting me like who are you. "I wish these irrelevant people would stop quoting my tweet from hours ago." The best responses to Hannah's tweet Will David de Gea join Real Madrid in January?8000+ VOTES SO FAR

Liverpool secured a over Italian giants AC Milan in California. Klopp's men took control from the start and went ahead with a fine goal from Divock Origi. Roberto Firmino put the Reds two up with a clever finish after youngster Sheyi Ojo produced an electric run. The only surprise is that isn't wasn't more emphatic. Here's the player ratings courtesy of the Had very little to do, but did show intent in coming out of his area and using his feet a little bit more. A big moment in the career of the West Derby youngster, and he acquitted himself very well. Didn't have too much to do, but did what he had to with minimal fuss. The Croatian was solid once more, though there wasn't much for him – or his team-mates – to deal with against a disappointing Milan side. The same as Lovren, but receives an extra mark for a great tackle on Niang in the first half. He says he doesn't mind being Mr Versatile, and this proved it. Started at left back, moved into midfield for the first 15 minutes of the second half, before departing for Ojo. Reliable and dependable, naturally. A good run-out from the skipper, playing in a deeper role in midfield. Showed a decent range of passing and pressed the ball well. Lacking a little bit of sharpness but that will come. A solid enough debut for the Dutchman, still getting up to speed with his new surroundings. Showed a few classy touches and clearly likes to get into the box. Had an opportunity early on which he couldn't convert. Looked a threat when he found the ball, and played a couple of nice passes. A decent 45-minute run-out. In a more central position than he was used to last season, the midfielder offered some top notch pressing and distributed the ball well. Same old, same old. His best game for Liverpool so far, but needs to work on that end product. Electric pace, always an outlet and put a couple of dangerous balls in. Should have scored on the stroke of half time, however. A thoroughly decent run out for the striker, who made his first appearance of pre season. Had a couple of sights at goal and showed some neat link-up play. Criticised heavily for his Chelsea performance – even in pre-season – and incurred the wrath of Klopp early in the second half. A superb ball for Origi's opener, however. His first appearance since returning to the fold after Euro 2016 and manned the right-hand side dutifully. Will face sterner tests. 'Kevin Stewart 6' is probably the most frequent phrase of pre-season so farigned Chelsea winger Victor Moses on loan for the remainder of the season with an option for a permanent deal.The move sees the 29-year-old former Nigeria international team up again with former Blues boss Antonio Conte."It's an honour for me to be h. Reliable once again. Showed great anticipation to score Liverpool's second and generally looked lively. His first touch, at times, is filthy. Better showing from the Serbian than the last couple of outings, and looked dangerous going forward. Still needs to show something more, however. Scored a superb goal, changed the dynamic of Liverpool's attacking play and looked a general menace. What more do you want? How quick is this kid? The teenager was a constant threat out wide, helping set up the second goal. A real terror at times. He hasn't been bad this summer, you know. And Lion in victory over Sheffield United.The captain was changed for Divock Origi as the visitors chased a winner.Klopp said, "No, it was an offensive change. We had the opportunity - either Hendo or Gini, both worked hard, for both it was not an easy gaiverpool need defenders. Not enough time to make an impression, and would be nice to see a bit more of him. Played in midfield, which is all you need to know. Will Liverpool finish in the top four this season?16000+ VOTES SO FAR

made a special effort to congratulate Michael Carrick on his performance after the , the United midfielder has revealed. Manchester City were held at the Etihad by the Red Devils in the goalless affair as the race for the top four tightens up. The Spaniard was impressed by Carrick, who reciprocated the respect towards the manager of United's bitter rivals. "He said congratulations and well played. He's obviously a terrific manager, he's had success wherever he's been and I have a lot of respect for him." The Spaniard claimed only Michael Carrick, as a player, would have made it into his all-conquering Barcelona side, . Carrick prompted a glowing tribute from the man who has overseen such talents as Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Xabi Alonso. He said: “I am a big fan of Michael Carrick. “He is one of the best holding midfielders I’ve ever seen in my life by far. “He’s the level of Xabi Alonso, Sergio Busquets in Barcelona and Munich. “All of them (United’s English players) they are perfect. “Rashford is a big talent, of course, and Lingard. “England is safe, you have outstanding players. “Not just here in City – United, Tottenham, Chelsea. Come on guys - you can do it, the international team.” Finding the man to fill Carrick’s shoes will be crucial to exploiting Pogba’s talent to the fullest. He never looked better than when anchored by Andrea Pirlo at Juventus - and his performances have been enhanced when Carrick is in the United team. Despite a difficult return to United this season, Guardiola has no doubts about the quality of a player City were so keen to sign two summers ago. “I met Paul Pogba for the first time when Bayern Munich played Juventus last season,” said Guardiola. “In both games I was really impressed. “Heng Real Madrid.Sergio's team head into the game on the back of a shock Copa del Rey exit at the hands of second-tier Tenerife.Additionally, Valladolid have not won in LaLiga Santander in eight matches, yet the Catalan coach approaches the situation w played in 10 positions. He is an outstanding player and he can do absolutely everything. “Sometimes it’s not easy to handle the expectations you have when you arrive here, especially with the amount of Southampton have been offered the chance to sign Aaron Long. The New York Red Bulls defender was close to signing for West Ham United last summer.However, he could not get a work permit.Long has a $6m release clause in his contract.money, it wasn’t easy. “I think he made a good season.” Will Michael Carrick end his career at Manchester United?6000+ VOTES SO FAR

Patrick Vieira will insist give him the “tools to become a successful manager” before he considers being their head coach. The will go hea- nine points behind leaders Liverpool - but boss Pep Guardiola is only concerned with the next game rather then the bigger picture of winning the Premier League."I am not thinking about how many games we have to win. I know we cannot lose games. I ad to head with Steve McClaren this week as Newcastle move to appoint their new boss. Owner Mike Ashley wants a new man in place this week and managing director Lee Charnley will hold talks with two candidates before making the decision. Vieira spent last week doing his Pro Licence and spoke of his ambition to take charge at the top level. The France and legend has a clear “vision” on what type of coach he wants to be, and will expect backing. He explained last week as Newcastle made their approach: “I’m happy with the way I am developing as a manager and a young coach. “It’s about the vision. I’ve been here for three years from the B licence to the pro ln is not afraid of a little competition for his place in the side.Given the number of talented midfielders at the club, including Fabinho, Gini Wijnaldum, James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, few are guaranteed a starting spot.Rather than seeingicence and I really know myself. I really know which kind of manager I want to be. “They don’t try to put something in my head. It’s about who I am as a person and how I see the game and how they can give me the tools to be a successful manager.” Vieira spent time talking with Swansea boss Garry Monk on how to manage players and make an impact. He added: “We all have a different experience. We all put it on the table and you take the bit you want and need. “Talking to Monk was really interesting because an ex-player going into a managerial role then what is his first step? What was the message he sent to the players? What was his first focus on? “Those are the kind of details which are really important because one day we all want to go through that situation. If we can other people’s experience to improve ourselves then it’s really good.” McClaren still has senior backers at Newcastle in a straight fight with Vieira, the candidate who offers the chance of an intriguing fresh start. Vieira had already indicated he has an affinity with Newcastle. “My favourite stadium I have played in in this country I have to say is Newcastle. I like Newcastle’s stadium. I love the atmosphere and I like the way the stadium is built and I loved playing there.” Newcastle fans! Which manager would you prefer?2000+ VOTES SO FAR

Rio Ferdinand has warned Louis Van Gaal that he is under massive pressure at Old Trafford because of the money he has spent. Ferdinand insists Van Gaal must finish in the top two in the coming season and also challenge for silverware after splashing out £230million during his first 12 months in charge. boss Van Gaal spent £150m last year, has already forked out £80m this summer and is determined to bring in even MORE big names before the end of the transfer window on September 1. And former Red Devils captain Ferdinand turned up the heat even more. He claimed that Van Gaal still does not know his best defence and has lost some of the club’s identity, and also says MUST score 25 goals this season. Ferdinand said of the Dutchman who delivered a fourth-place finish in his debut campaign: “Of course he is under pressure. "At least to improve and finish in second place. Man United need to be finishing, at a minimum, in second place this season, and maybe get their hands on a trophy. “You have to go out there and show that there has been an improvement on the year before when you spend a lot of money. “He had to change it to the way he wants it. It’s not like he took over a team that was winning and was confident. He’s come in and taken over a more or less broken squad in terms of confidence. “There was probably nothing there for him to keep hold of. I think he was right to come in and bring in his own philosophy and ideas." Ferdinand, released by United a year ago when his contract expired and , added: “Was it done too drastically? Only the players who are there will be able to tell you that in years to come, when they reflect. “But this is a massive season in that respect. He’s had last season and a whole pre-season to really drill his ideas and philosophy into these players so there are no excuses now. “I think first you need a good start. Their start last year was shocking. If they do that this year... They need to start well. "They are under pressure. The pressure is huge for Rooney. He has got a big season ahead of him. He has to score 20-25 goals this season, for Man United to win the league and be successful. In any capacity the no9 for Man United has to score 25 goals a season.” Van Gaal has brought in , Morgan Schneiderlin, Matteo Darmian and to the tune of £80m this summer. United are closing in on Barcelona winger Pedro, but Ferdinand feels they were tricked by who has secured a new contract at Real Madrid after being linked with a move to Old Trafford. It has left Ferdinand believing that Van Gaal is still struggling defensively and that he has lost touch with the days when United would be proud of bringing through home-grown players from their own academy. Ferdinand said: “The policy is definitely a far cry from what it was before at Manchester United. It’s similar to all the other clubs that we’ve seen spending lots of money over the last five or 10 years. Man United have kind of gone into that category now. “It’s a little bit sad, yeah, if you’re a romanticist where Man United were that team that weren’t like everyone else. Will Manchester United finish in the top two this season?7000+ VOTES SO FAR "But, sometimes, needs must, and Manchester United obviously not winning, having to qualify for the Champions League [via a playoff later this month], it’s not a good place for Man United in terms of the success that’s been there before. “Time will tell if they are good signings. "I think . Schneiderlin hasn’t been at a top-four club before, Schweinsteiger won all there is to win the game but hasn’t played in the Premier League which is a different beast. Depay hasn’t played here. “These players have still got to prove, not only to the Man United fans and to the staff but to themselves, that they can play here. “It’s a great challenge to have for them but they’ve still got to go and prove that, so that’s the difference. They’re all good players, they’re all great, fantastically talented players. “I’m excited to see how Depay fares this season but there’s still a risk element to signing someone so young for a different league. “I don’t think Van Gaal knows his best defence. That’s a problem in itself. Part of the reason he doesn’t know it is because he hasn’t had a chance to watch them all play over a long time - consistently for 12 or 15 games. “If you don’t get that familiarity between you as defenders, it’s difficult to build foundations. I played with Vidic for six years with no fitness problems between us. I woke up on a Saturday knowing that Vida was going to be fit and he was the same with me. I knew Edwin van der Sar was going to be behind me [in goal]. "At the moment these guys aren’t doing that. They don’t know if Chris Smalling is going the hectic festive schedule.Guardiola has been an outspoken critic of the Premier League's scheduling since the day he took over City in 20fended his lack of goals.Pogba insists it's tougher in the modern game for midfielders to score 20 goals a season.He told Icons: "Football has changed a lot. I grew up watching the exploits of great champions, real legends like Del Piero, Figo, Totti16.And the Catalan has revealed that he has formally told the competition about his feelings."I wrote a letter to be fit, if Phil Jones or Jonny Evans or Rojo are going to be fit. So how can you start to build relationships? That’s been part of the problem for Van Gaal.” * BT Sport 1 has the first game of the new Barclays Premier League season with Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur this Saturday from noon, the first of 38 exclusively live Barclays Premier League games this season on BT Sport. This season BT Sport Europe is the new home of European football with all UEFA Champions League matches and UEFA Europa League matches exclusively live, visit . Will Wayne Rooney score 25 goals for Manchester United this season?1000+ VOTES SO FAR

The first pictures of the ball that will be used in have been released. French legend Zinedine Zidane took to his Instagram page to reveal the Beau Jeu, which will be used in the group stage of next summer's tournament. For the first time ever, a separate ball will be used in the knockout stages in the revamped competition. Sixteen teams will progress from the initial phase, instead of the regular eight, withs to Napoli on Sunday made it four winless friendlies in a row for the Reds.But Dutch star van Dijk believes the return of the club's stars, including Mohamls he and Lionel Messi are now working better together at Barcelona.Messi laid on an assist for Griezmann to score in last night's Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund.Afterwards, the France World Cup winner said: "After that, the same happeneed Salah, Alisson, Roberto Firmino and Salah Mane, will be important for Sunday's Community Sh 24 countries taking part in the Euros, expanded from 16. progressed to France with a perfect 10 wins from 10 in qualifying, and will be joined by Northern Ireland and Wales. The Republic of Ireland will have the chance to book their place in the tournament when they play a two-legged playoff against Bosnia over the international break. Inspired by the branding of Euro 2016, the Beau Jeu has shades of blue and red as well as the main colour of white, representing host country France's tricolour flag. The Adidas and Euro 2016 logos feature prominently, as does the Beau Jeu lettering. It also features the numbers 2, 0, 1 and 6 to mark the year of the tournament, as well as the letters E, U, R and O. The ball has the same panel design as the Adidas Brazuca, which was used at the 2014 in Brazil, but has improved grip and in-flight visibility. The Beau Jeu is made for 'true flight, accuracy and control'. It will be handed to competing federations by the end of this month, giving countries time to get used to the matchball. Wales and Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale has tried out the ball and said: "I tested Beau Jeu in training with long shots, passes and running at pace. It performed brilliantly. I can't wait for the tournament to start." Are you a fan of the Euro 2016 ball?0+ VOTES SO FAR

stay top of the after fighting back from a goal down to end Tottenham's unbeaten start to the season. Manchester City and Arsenal came from behind, while Liverpool dug deep, to keep pace with the Blues in a fascinating title race. There was more misery for and Jose Mourinho though as West Ham held the Red Devils at Old Trafford - meaning the Portuguese has overseen the worst start to a United season since 1989. Swansea picked up the first win of the Bob Bradley era in a NINE-GOAL thriller at the Liberty, meaning Alan Pardew is fighting to keep his Crystal Palace job with the Eagles only out of the drop zone on goal difference. Here is what we learned from this Premier League weekend... 1. Chelsea’s defence breached - and their tactical code cracked Chelsea conceded their first goal in the Premier League in exactly 600 minutes, writes John Cross. So much for Antonio Conte’s tactical genius. The defence breached and the 3-4-3 system being found out by Mauricio Pochettino. The Tottenham boss, somehow, found a way to completely outfox Chelsea in midfield. Dele Alli was central, Moussa Dembele dominant and powerful while Victor Wanyama controlled from deep. It was a fabulous tactical battle by two of the Premier League’s best managers and tacticians. 2. United aren't as unlucky as Jose thinks Earlier this month Jose Mourinho described Manchester United as the unluckiest team in the Premier LeagFootball Federation Australia (FFA) has appointed Tom Rischbieth to commercial general manager for the country's professional leagues, reports, /.His role with Australian soccer's governing body covers the A-League, W-League, Y-League and E-League. He arrives from the UK-based Sports Rights Management.ue and this was another game where the manager will rue his misfortune, writes Frank Smith. But despite having 73.6 per cent possession in the first half, United could only go into the interval level and there comes a point where even Mourinho will have to admit that his team must take responsibility for their failure to be clinical in front of goal. The Red Devils created plenty of chances this afternoon and could have won by two or three on another day. But is that a team being unlucky or a team not being clinical enough? 3. Ake shines at heart of defence Nathan Ake is highly-thought of at Chelsea and is progress will certainly have been boosted by a move to the south coast, writes Liam Prenderville. He was excellent at Watford last term but has found his opportunities limited since joining Bournemouth. Ake found the net against Stoke last time out but it was at the other end of defence where he excelled here. While defensive partner Cook had a day to forget, the 21-year-old was excellent up against Alexis Sanchez. A bright future beckons. 4. Virgil van Dijk is worth the hype The talented 25-year-old signed an improved, six-year deal with the Saints back in May. So if the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea really are interested in him then the supposed £40million valuation would surely be where the bidding would start, not finish, writes Darren Lewis. Van Dijk was once again composed, elegant, intelligent and aggressive equal measure. He sprayed passes around the pitch from the back in a manner of which Koeman himself would have been proud. You can see absolutely why so many clubs are big admirers. Like Victor Wanyama at Spurs, the 6ft 4in Dutchman has made the transition from Scottish to English football with the minimum of fuss. This was yet another good afternoon at the office for him. 5. Liverpool have lost their spark The Reds seem to have lost their cutting edge since the international break, writes David Maddock. They look a little lethargic, tired even, and there has been less pace and less invention in their build up play after their players returned from national duty. Jurgen Klopp must be cursing having to let his players go off on their travels all across the globe.x 6. Adam should be in Scotland side A proven Premier League performer who adds aggression in midfield – and always gets forward to offer a goal threat. He should have scored with his first-half header which hit the post and then Heurelho Gomes, writes Neil McLeman. Ignored by Gordon Strachan since June 215, he would not make Scotland any worse. Along with the recalled Gianelli Imbula – who was making his first Premier League appearance since Sept 10 – he ran the show in the absence of the suspended Joe Allen. 7. Pep needs to tighten up at the back Guardiola prides himself on his side's defending, but Dean Marney's stunning volley condemned them to another game without a clean sheet, wriham has quickly adjusted to coach Diego Simeone's demands.Trippier told AFP: "During these years you can see how strong Atlético has been, their teams have always looked like a family, and that is what I feel now. "Everything comes from Cholo, I thites David Anderson. They have managed just two in the Premier League this season and it is hurting them. Guardiola surprisingly left John Stones out to go with the makeshift centre-half pairing of Kolarov and Otamendi and it was the latter's poor header, which fell to Marney to score. 8. Adama Traore still raw Adama Traore has got encouraging reviews on Teesside following his summer switch from Aston Villa, writes James Nursey. But old habits die hard as the former Barcelona starlet cleverly broke clear in the first half ,only to opt to shoot from a tight angle with two team-mates better placed. It was the type of decision-making which made Tim Sherwood, Remi Garde and Eric Black all consistently overlook him in Villa's dreadful season of toil last term. 9. Hull need to strengthen in January If Hull City are to stand any chance of avoiding an immediate return to the Championship, Mike Phelan will need to significantly strengthen his side come January , writes Nathan Hemmingway. He’s already been talent spotting in Europe this week and was at Borussia Dortmund’s Champions League game to watch Legia Warsaw forward Nemanja Nikolic. Southampton’s Jay Rodriguez is also on his radar but that lack of squad depth after a woeful pre-season’s recruitment has been evident for most of the season with a number of academy youngsters making up the numbers on the bench. One of those, 17-year-old Josh Tyman, was handed a Premier League debut last Saturday at Sunderland and made his second start here today, while another, Jarrod Bowen, made up the numbers among the substitutes. Winger Sam Clucas has been playing at left-back in the absence of injured Andy Robertson who made a welcome return to the squad. 10. Fernando Llorente could keep Swans up Swansea started against one of their fellow strugglers without a natural striker which was as clear an indication as you can get of Bob Bradley's views on his options up front, writes Adrian Kajumba. Gylfi Sigurdsson started through the middle and was preferred up front to both Fernando Llorente - a World Cup and European Championship winner - and £15m club record signing Borja Baston. Baston didn't even make the bench and he's not injured which shows how ineffective he has been since his big move. At least Llorente had the chance to give his manager some food for thought when he came off the bench to strike twice and had a hand in Leroy Fer's first goal. Who is the best manager in the Premier League?6000+ VOTES SO FAR